Diesel exhaust fluids (DEFs) enhance engine performance and reduce emissions. There’s a lot to love about this exhaust fluid, but storing it is tricky. After learning how to store diesel exhaust fluids by reading this brief guide, you can make sure they hold onto their purity without compromising your safety.
Store DEFs in a temperature-controlled environment to keep them in good condition. Ideally, you should store them at 12–77° F (-11–25° C). Exposure to extreme heat or cold can cause the fluid to deteriorate and decrease its effectiveness and quality. By keeping DEFs in this temperature range, you prolong its shelf life.
Sunlight can damage a DEF’s quality by degrading its composition. Store your DEF in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight, or in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers. These storage solutions can provide an extra layer of protection against sunlight and maintain the quality and effectiveness of diesel exhaust fluids. Taking these precautions will ensure the fluids remain in good condition.
The containers holding your DEFs should be airtight. Because these fluids are high-purity solutions consisting of urea and deionized water, they are vulnerable to contamination by dust, dirt, and other particles. These contaminants can compromise the quality of the fluid, leading to decreased engine efficiency.
When transferring DEFs from one container to another, use containers designed and approved for DEF storage. These specialized containers maintain the purity and quality of DEFs and prevent the introduction of impurities that could compromise their effectiveness.
By using the wrong containers, you risk contaminating the fluid, which can decrease its performance.
When you follow these tips, you can confidently store diesel exhaust fluids and maintain their effectiveness for your vehicle’s needs. Remember these storage procedures to maximize the benefits of DEFs. If you need quality Powerstroke exhaust system parts, look no further than Norcal Diesel Performance. We’ll enhance your vehicle's performance with our quality selection of diesel auto parts.
A. When stored properly in a cool, dry environment between 12°F and 77°F, Diesel Exhaust Fluid can typically last up to two years. Exposure to excessive heat or contamination can significantly reduce its shelf life and effectiveness.
A. Yes, DEF begins to freeze at approximately 12°F (-11°C). However, freezing does not permanently damage the fluid. Once thawed, DEF generally retains its original quality and performance as long as it has not been contaminated.
A. Contaminated DEF can cause problems with your vehicle's emissions system, reduce engine efficiency, and potentially trigger warning lights or derate conditions. Always use clean, approved containers and keep DEF storage containers tightly sealed.
A. Storing DEF outdoors is not recommended unless it is protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Prolonged exposure to heat and UV rays can degrade the fluid and shorten its usable lifespan.
A. Approved DEF containers are made from compatible materials designed to prevent contamination and maintain fluid purity. Using non-approved containers can introduce dirt, metals, or chemicals that may negatively affect your vehicle's DEF and emissions systems.
